Lirien's eyes locked onto Xarath's, her gaze steady and unwavering. "Let us not fight," she repeated. "Perhaps we can find a way to work together."
Xarath's dark energy pulsed with amusement. "You think I am foolish enough to trust you?" it sneered. "I have no intention of working with you."
Raven stepped forward, his voice calm and even. "Listen, Xarath," he said. "We're not here to fight you. We're here to protect our kingdom and our people. If you're willing to listen, we can work together to find a solution that benefits everyone."
Kaelara nodded in agreement, her eyes never leaving Xarath's face. "We're willing to listen to your proposal," she said. "If you're willing to listen to ours."
Xarath's dark energy flared with irritation, but for a moment, its gaze faltered. Then, with a snarl, it spoke. "Very well," it said. "I will listen. But do not think for a moment that I will be swayed by your weak words."
The four of them sat down, the tension between them palpable. Lirien began to speak, her words weaving a spell of calm and reason. Raven and Kaelara listened intently, their eyes locked on Xarath's face.
As they spoke, the air seemed to vibrate with an otherworldly energy. The crystal core at the heart of the chamber began to glow brighter, as if sensing the power of their bond.
Xarath's dark energy pulsed with interest, its malevolent intentions momentarily forgotten in the face of their words. For a moment, the four of them were united in their quest for understanding.
But just as it seemed that a breakthrough was imminent, Xarath's gaze snapped back to its malevolent focus. "No," it spat. "You are too late. The ritual is already begun."
The chamber began to shake and tremble, the crystal core glowing brighter as the ancient magic surged through it. Lirien's eyes went wide with alarm as she realized what was happening.